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Disappointment at Iluka Decision

28 March 2017

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Mary-Ann Brown has expressed her disappointment at today’s announcement about the impending suspension of the Hamilton Mineral Sands Separation Plant.

“This is very disappointing news for Iluka workers and their families. We understand the devastation this closure will cause for our local community and our thoughts are with all those affected”.

“Our priority is to ensure our people and families are supported as a result of this commercial decision and we will be looking to work with Federal and State Government and Iluka to work through the outcomes” Cr Brown said.

Today’s announcement about the impending suspension of the Hamilton Mineral Sands Separation Plant will have a major impact on the Southern Grampians region. Mining contributes $225million to the Gross Regional Product of Southern Grampians, the largest of any sector in the Shire including agriculture. Much of this is attributed to the Plant in Hamilton which has had a major impact on the local economy and employment in the Shire.

CEO Michael Tudball said the importance of jobs in rural communities cannot be underestimated and Council are committed to working towards a positive solution for those impacted by today’s announcement.

“We will be working in depth with Management at Iluka, and senior people at State and Federal Government level, looking at projects, support and further employment opportunities within our local communities”.